How Pakistan managed to get the US and Iran to a ceasefire
In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan played a pivotal role in bringing the US and Iran to a ceasefire, a feat that has been hailed as a significant diplomatic achievement. The tension between the two nations, which had been escalating for months, was paused, if only temporarily, thanks to Pakistan's tireless efforts. This is a story of strategic diplomacy, personal connections, and a country's determination to act as a global peacemaker.
The war, which began on February 28, had already claimed over 2,000 lives in Iran and disrupted global oil supplies, threatening to draw in regional powers. It was a delicate situation, and Pakistan's involvement began almost immediately after the initial US-Israeli strikes. Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, was in Saudi Arabia when the strikes hit Tehran, and he quickly conveyed solidarity with Iran.
Pakistan's Shia Muslim population, estimated at 15-20% of the country, was closely watching the escalating tensions. As sectarian tensions rose, Pakistan's Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, summoned Shia clerics and warned against violence. Pakistan also faced internal pressures, including an ongoing war with the Afghan Taliban and rising fuel costs due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The key to Pakistan's success lay in its early condemnation of the US-Israeli strikes, which proved crucial in winning over the Iranians. Pakistan's role as a global peacemaker was further solidified through its sustained engagement with Washington and its ties with regional actors. Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, played a central role, traveling to Jeddah to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and expressing solidarity while urging restraint against Iranian attacks.
The quadrilateral mechanism, involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, emerged from divisions within Gulf diplomacy. Pakistan's ties with both sides made it a natural choice for a mediator. Pakistan's Army Chief, Munir, had a direct channel with the White House, having previously arrested the alleged perpetrator of the Abbey Gate bombing in Kabul and having a relationship with Trump dating back to early last year.
The breakthrough came on Easter Sunday, as tensions peaked. Pakistan put forward a two-phase ceasefire proposal, with Munir in contact with US officials. Trump initially rejected the plan but eventually agreed to a ceasefire, which was confirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The immediate impact was visible, with oil prices dropping and the Strait of Hormuz set to reopen.
However, the ceasefire is not a peace deal, and key differences remain unresolved. Analysts note that Pakistan's role marks a significant shift, positioning itself at the center of a major diplomatic effort. Pakistan's ties in the Gulf and its improving relationship with Washington have played a crucial role in this achievement. Despite some critics describing Pakistan's role as that of a messenger, Pakistan's sustained engagement and institutional alignment have earned it a lasting gain in diplomatic chronicles.
In conclusion, Pakistan's diplomatic efforts, led by Prime Minister Sharif and Field Marshal Munir, have brought the US and Iran to a ceasefire, a significant achievement in a region fraught with tension. The country's role as a global peacemaker has been recognized, and its efforts will be remembered in diplomatic history.
